Introverts, it’s time to network

The statistics show that about half of all people are introverts. To an introverted person, thriving in today’s self-promoting business environment can seem daunting. In reality, introverts and extroverts need to learn how to leverage their personality styles when networking.

Just the word “networking” can conjure up visions of cold calling, and if you’re an introvert, the thought of reaching out to someone you don’t know can be enough to keep you from meeting new networking contacts. Developing the ability to network plays a huge role in your career-development, whether you are employed or in a job search. Meeting people and feeling comfortable with your communication skills impacts your career growth more than any other factor.

Most introverts try to copy an extrovert’s style, and that’s a problem, because you end up feeling awkward and ineffective. Your career is heavily impacted by two factors — your job performance and how effectively you let other people know how well you do your job. The ability to be visible is a key skill to acquire.

Here are some tips to consider if you struggle with networking:

Take networking baby steps. Most introverts rely on a small circle of acquaintances, so start with those people. Ask them questions about their industries, companies, or careers. Don’t put pressure on yourself by thinking you have to meet new contacts right away.

Write down your purpose for networking. Writing down why you are reaching out to others helps you with structure and minimizes the awkwardness that comes from not knowing what to say.

Introverts make really good networkers because of their listening skills. That’s right! Listening is a learned communication skill, and you should not overlook the power of your listening skills.

Networking is not a score card. If you attend an event and have three conversations instead of thirty, that’s fine. Focus on the quality of conversations not how many people you meet. Social networking is a great way to research people you would like to meet or be introduced to by friends. Just make sure you follow up once the introduction has been made.

Keep good notes about people you meet and send a thank you letter expressing your interest in future discussions. Introverts are good at expressing themselves in writing. The key is to follow up with people you felt comfortable with and stay in contact.

Bring a friend along when you attend an event or professional gathering. Be sensitive to how much you are contributing to the conversation. Avoid relying on your friend to carry the weight of conversations.

Research the company or review contacts online to help you in prepare questions. Having a series of open-ended questions gives you a measure of confidence that you can keep a conversation moving forward.

Asking for help or information is not pestering people. Most people will take your request as a compliment. One of the reasons networking fails is that people often don’t ask for the information the need.

Over-analyzing networking will keep you from moving ahead. Yes, you need to be prepared, but don’t wait until you feel completely comfortable before you start.